2. A True Lady (1/2)

flick's

four companions all moved surreptitiously toward the doors, quickly

checking themselves a final time before slowly, one by one, entering

the grand ballroom. startled from her reverie, flick hurriedly

stepped into line and had time to draw a sharp

eath before she was

ushered forward. the silence was heavy in the crowded hall as all

heads turned upwards to inspect the newcomer. she dimly heard the

chief herald announce "lady felicea of emeryia."

clutching the banister tightly in a clammy hand

she descended the stairs, resolutely refusing to glance either left

or right, her eyes fixed steadfastly upon the royals, the two people